pain under left breast and upper rib area

I am a 57 female. For the past two weeks I have had a severe pain in the area under my left breast or upper rib when I sneeze. There is also pain if I move in a certain way and if I put my arms up to stretch. It is also sore to the touch. Does anyone have an idea of what could be the cause. Thanks.

I had pain in that area also. I also had a small rash on my spine. After reading these boards, I determined I had shingles. Went to my doctor and it was confirmed. It was a mild case thank goodness. The pain feels like a sunburn when I touch it.

I also have this pain. When I am laying down and try to get up real fast, I have a sharp pain right under my left breast. The pain stops me from moving and lasts for a few minutes. It is really frightening. It is like a really strong muscle spasm. Sometimes I am afraid to do anything that may strain my stomach. I also remember trying to do sit ups and I felt the pain. I was told that it may be an ulcer because I also used to get a sharp pain right in the middle of my rib cage when I strained my stomach. Now though it seems that I have a constant ache in my left breast under my rib cage.

It is probably costocondritis(inflammation between the breast and rib). It happens to me at least once a month, when exercising or lifting something heavy. Its more annoying than serious. Just massage and ice it.. it will heal on its own.